However, I just get an exception when it attempts to open the connection -

Code:

An unhandled exception of type 'System.Data.SqlClient.SqlException' occurred in System.Data.dll
Additional information: A network-related or instance-specific error occurred while establishing a connection to SQL Server. The server was not found or was not accessible. Verify that the instance name is correct and that SQL Server is configured to allow remote connections. (provider: SQL Network Interfaces, error: 26 - Error Locating Server/Instance Specified)

It seems to behave as though it cant reach the server, though i am able to ping the VM.

I've worked through a bunch of different tutorials, but few address setting up the database very much. I'm thinking I've missed something there.